Best Countertop Materials for Kitchens

Choosing a kitchen top counter can be challenging if you don’t know your countertop materials. There’s a lot to consider – from the porousness of the material to the functionality, durability, and your style preference.

Here, we break down the different types of countertops to help you choose the best kitchen counter for your home.

Checklist of Things to Keep in Mind for Countertop Materials

Before choosing kitchen countertop materials, there are certain things to bear in mind. Top considerations include:

• Kitchen Islands

Islands need durable, corrosion-resistant countertops to withstand heat, stains, and scratches.

• Color and Design

Choose your countertop to match the décor of the kitchen in line with the room’s undertones.

• Durability/Ease of Maintenance

Always go for the materials with the highest durability and lowest maintenance needs.

• Integration with the Backsplash

Ensure that your countertop doesn’t clash with the backsplash; choose a matching pattern and a maximum of two colors when selecting materials for both areas.

• Size and Shape

Before installing your kitchen countertops, measure the length and width of your existing fixtures, such as base cabinets, backsplashes, and islands, to ensure they are an ideal fit.

• Cost of Ownership

Choose a countertop that is scratch-resistant, non-porous, easy to maintain, and durable over the long term to get more bang for your buck.

Top Materials for Kitchen Countertops

Countertop surfaces commonly come in the following materials:

• Ceramic Tile

Ceramic tile is highly affordable. However, it is susceptible to cracking and moisture damage, which encourages bacterial growth.

• Concrete

Concrete countertops are highly durable and customizable. But, they showcase flaws such as stains and scratches very easily.

• Granite

Granite countertops are incredibly durable. However, they are also porous, sucking up stains from oil, juices, and condiments easily. 

• Laminates

Laminate countertops are the ideal choice if you’re on a budget and looking for an inexpensive solution. The bad news is they aren’t resistant to scratches and heat.

• Marble

This countertop material has the wow factor and will upgrade any kitchen marvelously. However, marble is also expensive to install and maintain as it stains quickly.

• Quartz

Quartz is highly durable yet low maintenance. However, it is also heavy and suitable for indoor use only.

• Soapstone

Soapstone countertops offer a high return on investment; they are eco-friendly and durable but have limited design options.

• Solid-Surface Material

These countertops are completely waterproof but not resistant to heat damage.

• Stainless Steel

Although stainless steel countertops are highly durable and resistant to fire damage, they scratch, smudge, and stain easily.

• Wood / Butcher Block

These countertops look stunning and reduce noise in the kitchen. However, they stain and scratch easily, requiring high maintenance.

• Engineered Stone

Engineered stone countertops are attractive and durable. However, they are also not as heat resistant as natural stone.

Best Kitchen Countertops and Remodel Contractors in University Place, WA

Do you want to replace your Kitchen Countertops? Brown Building Contractors are the best people to call.

Our team of experienced home remodeling contractors will give you the best advice on countertop materials, ensuring a stylish and functional finish. Call 360-515-3299 or contact us online for a free quote.

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